The Humane Society of the United States forms new dog Breeders Advisory and Resource Council

This news from The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) couldn’t have been more timely:

The Humane Society of the United States announced the newly formed Breeders Advisory and Resource Council (BARC) which is composed of responsible dog breeders from across the country. Council members will advise HSUS on dog health and welfare issues, and talk to the general public about what constitutes proper breeding practices, promoting the health of the parents and the puppies.

In the press release announcing the council, Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The HSUS says:

“For too long, large-scale commercial puppy mills have given all dog breeders a bad name. We commend the responsible breeders who are showing leadership in their community and speaking out against the abusive operations that treat dogs not like loving family members, but like a cash crop. Everyone who cares about the health and welfare of dogs must be part of the solution, and we are excited about this new partnership.”

Council member and AKC Breeder of Merit, Kathryn McGriff says in the release:

“We want to protect our right to be responsible breeders and to enjoy and bond with our dogs in show and performance events, but if we think for one minute that ignoring the problem of cruelty to animals makes us responsible breeders and protects our rights, I believe we’re wrong. We can no longer sweep puppy mills under the rug.”